Investigating the predictive role of life expectancy in the quality of life of hemodialysis patients

Abstract Background Hemodialysis leads to changes and limitations in the quality of life of patients. Life expectancy is one of the newly raised issues related to the quality of life. This study was conducted to investigate the role of life expectancy in predicting the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Methods The present descriptive-analytical study was conducted among hemodialysis patients referred to educational and therapeutic centers of Qazvin Medical Sciences, Iran in 2024. By employing convenience sampling, the study included a total of 206 patients. Data collection was done using the demographic characteristics checklist, the standard questionnaire on the quality of life of kidney patients (KDQOL-SF), and Schneider's life expectancy questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Spss version 22, independent t -test, one-way ANOVA, descriptive indices, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results The mean age of the patients in this study was 66.62 ± 11.15. Out of 206 patients participating in the study, 109 (52.9%) were male and the rest were female. Most of the people (28.6%) were illiterate and were in poor economic status (69.9%). The mean score of life expectancy and quality of life of the patients was 26.14 ± 4.62, and 49.80 ± 13.02, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient between life expectancy and quality of life of patients was equal to 0.534, which indicated a positive and significant linear relationship at the 0.05 level with p -value < 0.001, and according to the results of the analysis of the variance table, the regression was significant ( p -value < 0.001). The regression relationship was found as Quality Score = 13.140 + 1.403*LIFE_Expectancy. Conclusion The results showed that hemodialysis patients do not have a good hope and quality of life. The life expectancy in a positive and meaningful relationship, as an independent variable, can estimate the quality of life of these patients. According to the different sub-fields of these two variables, it seems that we need to adopt supportive and empowering approaches and policies from the country’s policymakers and relevant managers.